After a successful inaugural year in 2023, the Hawaii International Futsal Cup is set to return — this time on the Hilo side from Aug. 9 through Aug. 11, and promises to deliver an exciting futsal tournament for both athletes and spectators from across Hawaii and Japan.
The County of Hawaii Department of Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Hawaii Futsal and the WeGo! Foundation, will organize the multi-day tournament that will be held at three premier venues in Hilo: Edith Kanaka‘ole Stadium, Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium, and Pana‘ewa Park.
“We received great feedback from last year’s event,” Hawaii County recreation administer Lindsey Iyo said. “Participants, parents, and other spectators were so thankful for the opportunity for friendly and fun competition. Everyone was excited about watching and playing the semi-pro men’s and women’s teams from Japan.”
Last year’s tournament was more than just a competitive and fun sporting event — it reflected the deep-rooted cultural connection between Hawaii and Japan. Iyo confirmed that a delegation from Japan will return again this year.
“We have invited teams from Hawaii County sister cities like Yurihama, Nago City, and Shibukawa, just to name a few,” Iyo said. “These sister city relationships encourage cultural exchange through the mutual love of futsal. We are looking forward to incorporating an ‘Aloha Ceremony’ this year where we will invite representatives from various cultures to share their traditions through performances. The ceremony will also include an introduction of all participating teams.”
Iyo explained the main reason for the venue change from last year’s Waimea’s Spencer “Kalani” Schutte District Park to Hilo’s iconic venues was to facilitate ample space for a true international-sized court and to also allow for more seating for spectators. Thus, it will not only help to increase exposure, but also the futsal experience for everyone involved.
The three-day tournament will again be geared for boys and girls in the U10, U12, U14, and U16 age brackets, with a men’s and women’s open division to ensure a wide range of participation. Each age division will feature up to six teams consisting of young and experienced athletes who will compete for the top spot and the coveted championship trophies.
Pool play for all divisions will commence on Friday, Aug. 9, continue through Saturday, with playoffs, championships and awards ceremonies scheduled for Sunday, August 11.
Iyo added that the excitement doesn’t stop at the futsal courts — concession stands are set to be a major highlight at each venue and will offer an array of local grinds that are sure to be a hit.
“We encourage teams to support the concessions at each venue,” she said. “Local youth teams and groups will be hosting the concession stands at the three venues. As we did last year, we are looking at hosting food trucks and local craft vendors on Sunday, the final day of competition.”
For those new to the sport of futsal, it’s an exciting, fast-paced version of soccer played on a smaller, hard court, typically indoors. Each team has five players, including the goalkeeper, and the game emphasizes quick passing, agility, and skilled ball control.
With smaller goals and a reduced playing area, players must rely on sharp technical skills and rapid decision-making. The game is known for its high-scoring nature and continuous action, making it incredibly entertaining for both players and spectators.
Don’t wait to secure your spot in this exciting tournament as the deadline to register is July 26 and the cost per team is $375. For more information and to register call the Recreation Division Office at (808) 961-8740 or email recreation@hawaiicounty.gov.
